Applications are now open for fencers wishing to join BF’s GBR Pathway Programme for the 2026-27 season. Deadline: 7th August 2026.
The GBR Pathway Programme is a six-weapon athlete development programme designed to support athletes on their journey towards senior international success, with the long-term aim of achieving World Championship, Olympic and Paralympic success. The programme is founded on the strategic principles of being fencer-centred, development-driven and competition-supported.
The Pathway exists to enable every GBR Pathway athlete to maximise their potential to achieve international medal success. It nurtures and retains talented athletes, ensuring a continuous pipeline of world-class fencers while keeping those who exit the pathway engaged in the sport. Guided by the values of honesty, respect, excellence, accountability and teamwork, the programme brings together athletes, coaches and staff in a shared commitment to learning, development and performance.
Before applying, athletes are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the GBR Pathway Programme, including the athlete pathway model and pathway stage descriptions, as applications will be assessed against a range of factors beyond rankings and results alone. These include behaviour and commitment, adaptability and decision-making, technical excellence, ability to tolerate mental and physical load, training environment, support structures and competition targets.
The eligibility criteria to apply include:
Applications can be submitted using the online form below:
For further information about the programme, eligibility criteria and what is required as part of the application process, please visit:
We encourage all athletes considering applying to take the time to review the information available, and also to ensure they understand the expectations and commitments associated with being part of the GBR Pathway Programme.
Applications are now open. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of fencers into the GBR Pathway Programme.
Please submit your application using the application request form here. The deadline to do so is Friday 7th August 2026. Successful applicants will be invited to join the August GBR Development Camp on the 29th and 30th of August 2026 in Nottingham.
Confirmed 2026-27 GBR Development Camps are as follows:
To see all Development Camps click here.
If athletes are selected for major events, there will be additional GBR preparation camps for those selected athletes, these dates are:
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